Since 2003, PRC has helped Western PA residents to safely dispose of over 5,000,000 lbs of household chemicals through our Household Chemical Collection Events. These events provide residents with a responsible means of disposing of hazardous materials such as automotive fluids, household cleaners, paint, and other chemicals. By knowing what to expect at our events, you play a part in ensuring the event proceeds as efficiently and safely as possible.
Best Practices
Practice Safe Storage – Leading up to an event label all containers and keep all
chemicals out of the reach of children and pets.
Do Not Bring Unaccepted Items – Be familiar with our accepted materials list and only bring materials that you know we will accept. You can find a list of accepted items under the “Frequently Asked Questions” tab here.
Do Not Repackage Chemicals – Keep all chemicals in their original container with labels intact. If the original container is leaking and it is safe to do so, transfer the materials to a new container and place the label in a zippered plastic bag.
Take Extra Care With Glass – If your materials are in a glass container, surround the container with newspaper to pad the container and prevent it from breaking.
Double Check All Caps and Lids – Ensure that all lids are secure and don’t leak to reduce the risk of spills.
Use Secondary Containment – Place all containers in a secondary container, such as cardboard box or plastic bin, for transportation. This will ensure that if a spill or leakage occurs the hazardous material is contained.
Place Material in Trunk or Truck Bed – This will allow for plenty of space between you as a participant and the contract staff that will be unloading your vehicle.
Avoid Smoking – For the safety of you and everyone around you, you should never smoke while transporting hazardous materials.
Reduce Waste Moving Forward – Next time, consider purchasing a smaller quantity or using an all natural or less toxic substitute.
For more tips on handling Household Chemicals check out PRC’s Safe & Healthy Home Brochure
What to Expect
- Our events are often well attended, so you will likely see a line of cars waiting to be unloaded.
- Stay in your vehicle at all times. This is both for your own safety and the safety of our volunteers and contractors.
- Check our website to ensure you know the fees for materials prior to attending so you are prepared
- After paying a staff member will direct you to our unloading area or “hot zone”. The chemicals in your vehicle will be unloaded by a team of experts to ensure that materials are handled as safely as possible.
- If you have materials in containers that you would like back, let our contractors know.
- Proceed to feel good for responsible disposing of your hazardous household waste and be sure to check-in for future events.
Inquiries
If you have questions about our Household Chemical Collection Events, please email saraha@prc.org.